St. John's wort is a herb that contains a variety of active components known to regulate neurotransmitter activity in the brain and secretion of cortisol into the bloodstream. As an antidepressant, its effects have been compared with the tryclic group of antidepressants, especially imipramine (Tofranil). The major active component of the herb is hypericin, which interestingly has also proved effective against certain viruses. St. John's wort also contains antioxidants and these are important in...